New multi-layer thermal insulation materials developed by Chinese scientists were used on engines of the Chang'e-6 probe's lander and ascender, enabling them to withstand extreme high temperatures in harsh environments and effectively resist temperature rises in excess of thousands of degrees Celsius. The newly developed materials were applied to the engine of the lander of the Chang'e-6 probe. During the landing process, temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius were generated. The materials act as a thermal insulation layer, similar to putting a fluffy skirt on the engine.
When the surface temperature surpasses 1,000 degrees Celsius, the internal temperature rapidly decreases to below 100 degrees Celsius, thanks to the exceptional insulation and protective capabilities of the thermal insulation layer.
This "skirt" has a thickness of merely one centimeter and consists of over 20 layers of special materials. When the engine is equipped with it, a thermal barrier is formed between the engine and the surrounding electronic components.
"By layering multiple materials, it could protect the storage tank and electronic components surrounding the entire engine, ensuring that they operate at the appropriate temperature. The engine operating conditions of the ascender are more severe as it is deeply embedded within the ascender's compartment, thereby necessitating higher requirements for thermal insulation. Moreover, the engine is located in close proximity to the thermal shield, resulting in higher temperatures," said Yu Yang, senior engineer, the Shanghai Institute of Ceramics (SIC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
"We have developed a new type of multi-layer thermal insulation material that is different from the materials making the lander, with improved temperature resistance and superior insulation performance, [which is designed to] protect the electronic components and ensure that the electronic components remain within a normal temperature range throughout the entire ascent process," said the senior engineer.
The returner of the Chang'e-6 probe touched down on the Earth on Tuesday, bringing back the world's first lunar rock and soil samples collected from the moon's far side, and marking another remarkable achievement in China's space exploration endeavors.
New thermal insulation materials used on Chang'e-6 probe, resisting extreme temperature fluctuations
